Trade Careers in Texas
Quick answer: In Texas, elevator mechanics earn a median of $102,140 and electricians $58,570 per year (BLS, May 2025). Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program, often in two years or less. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, including TDLR and the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
Texas is one of the best places in the country to start or grow a skilled trades career. With booming industries, low unemployment, and strong infrastructure investment, the Lone Star State is constantly hiring electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, welders, and other licensed pros.
Whether you’re a high school graduate, career changer, or military veteran, Texas offers clear licensing paths, affordable training, and a steady demand for tradespeople.
Why Choose a Skilled Trade in Texas?
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| High Demand | Fast-growing population and construction statewide |
| Strong Wages | Many trades offer competitive wages; verify with current BLS data |
| Affordable Licensing | Most licenses are regulated by the TDLR and cost less than four-year college |
| Job Security | Skilled trades are essential in every Texas city and rural community |
“Texas ranks among the top states for employment in construction and skilled trades.” - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics1
Trade Comparison in Texas
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $48,900 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $40,620 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $42,815 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $59,840 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $53,340 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $101,470 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $64,810 | 2–6 months (state-approved course) | Yes in many states (state license) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) | Varies (state license or industry certification) |
| Electrician | $58,570 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $57,760 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $78,940 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $48,240 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $77,910 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $61,950 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $84,440 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,310 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $48,310 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $59,180 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $58,810 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $64,150 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $50,460 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $46,670 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $56,290 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $37,500 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $37,500 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $47,870 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $24,230 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $39,520 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $39,970 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $62,240 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $62,240 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $45,430 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $53,000 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $45,900 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $40,450 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $78,630 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $92,580 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,970 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $65,220 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $38,720 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $48,860 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $42,910 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $81,500 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $31,590 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $59,370 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $40,880 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $36,370 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $34,850 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $39,410 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $30,680 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $30,680 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $49,250 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $36,463 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $36,463 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $48,910 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $110,080 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $62,310 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Texas).
Trade Schools in Texas
Texas offers one of the most accessible and outcome-focused trade school systems in the U.S. Whether you’re training to become an HVAC technician, welder, or CDL driver, choosing an accredited Texas trade school can help you get job-ready fast, with many programs taking less than two years to complete.
Pro Tip: Public schools like TSTC offer career support and tuition assistance for high-demand trades. Verify details with the school.
Benefits of Texas Trade Schools
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Local Licensing Alignment | Programs follow TDLR, CSLB, and TSBPE guidelines |
| Affordable Tuition | Community colleges and TSTC offer low-cost, in-state rates |
| Career Support | Most schools partner with Texas employers and unions |
| Fast Training Timelines | Many programs are completed in 6-18 months |
Top Texas Trade School Programs
| Program | Typical Length | Common School Types |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician | 9-18 months | TSTC, SCI, community colleges |
| Welding | 6-12 months | TSTC, Lincoln Tech, Dallas College |
| CDL Truck Driving | 4-8 weeks | TSTC, Lone Star, private CDL academies |
| Diesel Technician | 12-24 months | South Texas College, TSTC |
| Electrician Training | 1-2 years + apprenticeship | HCC, Dallas College, IBEW affiliates |
Where to Start
Visit our full guide: Best Trade Schools in Texas (2025). Learn about accredited programs, licensing outcomes, and which trades are in highest demand across the state.
Licensing Agencies in Texas
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | TDLR - Electricians |
| Plumber | Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners |
| HVAC | TDLR - A/C & Refrigeration |
| Solar Installer | No specific license (may need electrical) |
| Welder | Optional - AWS certification recommended |
| Carpenter | No state license required |
| Mold Inspector | TDLR - Mold Assessors & Remediators |
Career & Salary Outlook in Texas
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Construction Manager | 8.7% |
| Home Inspector | -0.8% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Lineworker | 6.6% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| Maintenance Technician | 3.8% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 2.6% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | 2.6% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | 5.2% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.3% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.3% |
| Home Health Aide | 17.0% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | 13.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | 7.1% |
| Medical Office Administrator | 4.2% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | 19.2% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| Personal Trainer | 11.9% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | 2.8% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | 9.1% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Esthetician | 6.7% |
| Beauty Professional | 5.6% |
| Cosmetologist | 5.6% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | 7.1% |
| Pastry Chef | 7.1% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.3% |
| Paralegal | 0.2% |
| Bookkeeper | -5.8% |
Job growth uses state projections when available and national projections (BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034) when state data is unavailable. Median pay for each trade is shown in the comparison table above.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections (2024-2034). Projected U.S. change shown for each trade.
Ready to Start Your Trade Career in Texas?
Explore a guide, compare training options, or download a checklist to take your first step today.
Citations
About this guide: Researched and written by the TradeCareerPath Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches and sources every trade school and career guide using federal labor and education data, including BLS OEWS and Employment Projections, DOL apprenticeship records, IPEDS, College Scorecard, and state licensing boards. We follow the editorial standards documented at /editorial-policy/.
References
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh ↩︎